Sue Fachini Chooses to Create a Legacy in Spiritual Care
Sue Fachini put her faith and devotion into action by volunteering at St. Vincent Healthcare after a 30-year career in police work.
When Sue Fachini moved to Billings in 2008, she purchased a home on Locust Street, a few blocks from St. Vincent Healthcare.
In search of something to keep her active, one day she walked over to St. Vincent, met the volunteer director and signed up to volunteer in the gift shop. From there, Sue has volunteered in multiple roles at St. Vincent, helping with everything from the No One Dies Alone Program to the Befriender Ministry and wherever else she can be of service.
Sue has a B.A. in criminology and pursued graduate studies in Theology. Sue retired from the Portland (Oregon) Police Bureau in 2008. The final seven years of her career were spent in the major crime/sexual assault division.
She shared stories of elder abuse and child abuse that she investigated as a detective. After seven years in such intense service, she was burned out and ready to retire. After Sue’s parents passed away, she no longer felt anchored to Portland. Also, Portland had become too large and congested for her. Sue often visited this area on fly-fishing vacations and decided to relocate to Billings when she retired.
After 30 years of police work where she experienced the worst of humanity, Sue is proud that she continues to have faith in humanity. She did not let her experiences in police work taint her view of the world or enjoyment of life. Even though she experienced anger and bitterness, she still cares deeply about others. And Sue is always looking for a place to make a difference.
Sue’s Catholic faith is very important to her and has influenced her volunteering and giving. Because of her faith and devotion, Sue became interested in the Spiritual Care programs at St. Vincent Healthcare. After volunteering with the Chaplains and the Spiritual Care Team, Sue decided to leave her entire estate to St. Vincent Healthcare Foundation and the Spiritual Care Department. She was able to see firsthand the impact they have in the lives of the patients they serve and wants her legacy to live on through their legacy.